Dubai on your own – a guide

How to plan a vacation in Dubai on your own?

A trip to Dubai on your own starts with good planning. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for an unforgettable vacation:

1. Choose the best time to go

Dubai tempts with sunshine all year round, but the most comfortable conditions are between November and March, when temperatures are a pleasant 68–86°F. In summer (June to August), the heat is intense, but hotel and attraction prices tend to be much lower. When planning your trip, it is also worth checking the local events calendar – for example, the Dubai Shopping Festival is the perfect time for shopping and entertainment.

2. Buy airline tickets and take care of your visa

Emirates, Lot, and FlyDubai are among the airlines flying from Poland to Dubai. The earlier you book your flights, the better chance you have of getting good prices. Polish citizens can obtain a free tourist visa upon arrival, but remember that your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of travel.

3. Plan your budget

Although Dubai is considered an exclusive destination, traveling on your own can be much more economical. The city offers cheaper accommodation options, inexpensive restaurants, and many free attractions. Decide in advance how much you want to spend on various aspects of your trip, such as food, transportation, and tickets, to avoid surprises.

4. Prepare a flexible sightseeing plan

Dubai is a city of contrasts – modern architecture intertwines with traditional markets. Decide what you want to see, but leave room for spontaneous discoveries. Traveling on your own gives you complete freedom – take advantage of it!

What is worth seeing in Dubai without a guide?

Traveling around Dubai without a guide allows you to discover attractions at your own pace. Here is a list of places to consider when exploring on your own:

• Burj Khalifa

This is the tallest building in the world and a must-see for every visitor. It is worth booking tickets to the observation deck (124&125 or 148 floors) online to avoid crowds. The view at sunset is truly spectacular.

• Dubai Mall and fountain show

Near the Burj Khalifa is a huge shopping center – the Dubai Mall. Even without shopping, you can have a great time here: an aquarium, an ice rink, and the famous dancing fountains are attractions available to everyone – and completely free of charge.

• Historic districts: Deira and Bur Dubai

To get a feel for old Dubai, head to Deira and Bur Dubai. It's worth taking a stroll through traditional souks such as the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk. Be sure to cross Dubai Creek in a traditional abra boat – for a symbolic 1 AED – it's a great way to experience the city authentically.

• Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina

The iconic artificial island in the shape of a palm tree is synonymous with luxury. A stroll along The Boardwalk or a visit to the famous Atlantis hotel is a perfect choice. Dubai Marina, on the other hand, impresses with its modern architecture and atmosphere, especially after dark when everything is beautifully lit up.

• A trip to the desert

You can't leave Dubai without a trip to the desert. You can rent a car or take advantage of an inexpensive group safari in Dubai. An exciting drive through the dunes, sunset and a Bedouin-style dinner are experiences that will stay with you for a long time.

• Museums and culture

The Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort is worth a visit to better understand the history of the region. If you are interested in art, visit the artistic district of Alserkal Avenue with its galleries and creative spaces.

Where is the best place to stay in Dubai on your own?

Downtown Dubai: a great location for those who want to have the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall almost on their doorstep. Although accommodation in this area is more expensive, it is ideal for those who value proximity to the biggest attractions. To stay within your budget, consider Airbnb apartments or 3-4 star hotels.

Dubai Marina: this is the perfect neighborhood for fans of urban landscapes and evening walks along the waterfront. You'll find both luxury hotels and more affordable apartments here. A big plus is the proximity to JBR beach.
On the Two Continents website, you can easily rent an apartment in Dubai in the heart of this prestigious location.

Deira and Bur Dubai: if you are looking for lower costs and an authentic local atmosphere, these neighborhoods are the perfect choice. Deira offers many budget hotels, and thanks to well-developed transportation (e.g., metro), it is easy to get to the center from here. It is an excellent starting point for exploring the city on your own.

Jumeirah: for those looking for relaxation by the sea, Jumeirah is ideal. Its proximity to the beach and the famous Burj Al Arab makes it one of the most picturesque parts of the city. Although accommodation prices are higher here, the spectacular views and relaxing atmosphere definitely make up for it.

Transport in Dubai

Getting around Dubai on your own is convenient and well organized, and the choice of transportation allows you to tailor your travel to your needs. The most popular and cheapest option is the Dubai Metro, which consists of two lines—red and green—connecting the city's most important points, such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and the international airport. The metro is clean, air-conditioned, and always on time, and a one-day ticket allows for unlimited travel.

An alternative to the metro are taxis, which are easily available and relatively inexpensive. It is worth using official taxis (cream-colored with colorful roofs) or the Careem app. Where the metro does not run, buses are helpful, although they are slower. In the Dubai Marina area, it is also worth considering using the tram, which is good for short journeys in this district. All public transport is operated by the NOL card, which can be purchased at metro stations.

For those planning further trips, for example to the desert or Abu Dhabi, renting a car is a good option. The roads in Dubai are modern and fuel is cheap, but it is worth remembering about additional costs, such as parking fees and Salik tolls. In districts such as Dubai Marina and Jumeirah, you can rent a bike or electric scooter – a pleasant way to explore the city along the seaside promenades and discover Dubai from a slightly different perspective.

Are you planning to visit Dubai and want to get around the city efficiently? Check out our guide to public transport in Dubai and find out how to get to the biggest attractions quickly, comfortably, and cheaply.

A few tips for exploring Dubai's attractions on your own

• Respect local customs

Dubai is a Muslim city, although it is open to tourists. In public places, especially in mosques and souks, it is advisable to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.

• Download useful apps

Apps such as Waze, Careem, and RTA Dubai (transport timetables) will help you easily navigate the city and discover its attractions.

• Take advantage of free attractions

Dubai offers many free attractions, such as fountain shows, public beaches (e.g., JBR Beach), and a stroll through the souks, which will provide you with unforgettable experiences without spending any money.

• Eat locally

Instead of expensive restaurants in shopping malls, try local eateries in Deira or Bur Dubai. Shawarma and falafel are cheap but delicious dishes that will give you a taste of the real Dubai.

Questions and answers

1. Is it worth traveling to Dubai without a guide?

Exploring Dubai on your own is a great option that allows you to discover the city at your own pace and explore both well-known attractions and hidden gems. Thanks to the well-developed transport infrastructure and easy access to information, traveling around Dubai without a guide is easy and comfortable, giving you more freedom. It's a great choice for people who value independence and flexibility when traveling.

2. What are the attractions in Dubai to see on your own?

In Dubai, it is worth visiting the Burj Khalifa with its observation deck, the Dubai Mall with its spectacular fountain shows, and the historic districts of Deira and Bur Dubai, where souks and traditional abra boat rides await. A walk along the Dubai Marina and a visit to the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah are other attractions that can be easily discovered on your own.

3. Is Dubai friendly to independent travelers?

Dubai is very friendly to independent travelers, thanks to its modern infrastructure, efficient public transport, such as the metro and taxis, and the widespread use of English. The city offers a wealth of tourist information and apps to make independent sightseeing and orientation easier.

4. How to plan a trip to Dubai without a travel agency?

To plan a trip to Dubai without a travel agency, start by choosing the right time (preferably from November to March), booking flights and accommodation in districts such as Dubai Marina or Deira. Prepare a flexible sightseeing plan, including attractions such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and the souks, and use the metro and apps such as Waze and RTA Dubai to get around the city. Set a budget for food, transportation, and tickets, and book attractions online to save time and avoid queues.